The Lucky One

Chapter 49

Growing Wings

Emily

After snapping countless group pictures, the girls gathered their stuff and headed home to show off their final looks to their parents. Or, in Breana’s case, to Madison. I found myself in the living room with Henry, Gena and Zack, along with his girlfriend Helen curled up in his lap.

“You’re so beautiful,” Gena told me. “You look like one of those girls from magazines.”

“I agree,” Henry said, putting his arm around Gena. “You’re turning into a stunning young woman.”

“Yeah, you look okay.” Zack laughed. Helen gave an approving thumbs-up.

“Thank you, guys.” I blinked rapidly, doing my best to hold back tears and avoid ruining my makeup. Thankfully, my phone rang. “It’s Mama,” I said, and walked out to the porch.

“Mama?” I closed the door behind me and descended the steps into the backyard.

“Emi, I got your picture. You look beautiful, lovely. And so happy! I wish I could be there with you.”

“I wish you could be here too.”

“Richard wants to speak to you.” She handed him the phone without waiting for my approval.

“Emily, how are you doing?” Richard asked. Was it just me, or was his voice a little more careful, a little less snobby than before?

“A bit nervous,” I admitted. Since our talk, I was done hiding my feelings from him.

“You’re a great person. Everything will turn out fine. I mean, look at you. You survived the year!”

That didn’t quite cut it, though. “I didn’t just survive. I’m a different person now.”

And it was true. I felt like I’d found my wings and learned how to fly, as corny as it was. I finally appreciated myself. I’d discovered passions like writing and cooking. I had a family—two, even. I was going to fix my relationship with Richard and let go of Papa. I’d found friends who accepted me, flaws and all. I wanted Jon Henry Denson in my life, but I didn’t absolutely need him to be happy. I was actually, finally fine without him.

After chatting with Mama and Richard a couple more minutes, I hung up. The door opened, revealing Paul. “Wow,” we said in unison, breaking into laughter. He looked stunning in a dark suit with a white tee beneath and a light blue bow. His recently cut hair showcased his high cheekbones.

Paul came up to me, holding out his hand. I accepted it, and he twirled me under his arm. “You look lovely,” he said.

“You know how to clean up nice too.”

He pretended to primp his hair. “I know, right? I could be the next Bachelor.”

“Stop!” I laughed, and he wiggled his eyebrows. I asked the question that was burning my tongue. “How was it at the police station?”

“I recognized the guy. They locked him up.”

“That’s great news!”

He nodded. “And... I forgave him.”

It took me a second to register who he was talking about. My breath hitched just thinking about him. “You did?”

“Yeah, and I think you should too.”

It was like he’d pulled out the ground from under me. Paul telling me to forgive Jon was the last thing I expected him to say. It was like signing off on a contract: with this, he was giving us his blessing. Now all that was left was my own signature.

I wanted it to be easy. To have a perfect prom night with Jon. But I would be gone soon. I didn’t want to go through the healing process all over again.

“I don’t know if I can do that,” I said, tugging at my fingers.

Paul put his palms on my shoulders. “I know it’s not easy for you, but he loves you and you love him. I can see it in your eyes when you talk about him. I didn’t want to accept it for such a long time, but you’re my best friends, and you’re just plain happier when you’re together.”

At that, I hugged him as tight as I could. He patted my hair carefully so as not to disrupt the curls. “I’m scared, Paul,” I admitted.

“I know. But I’m here to help you, every step of the way. Forever.”

I was fighting back tears again. Paul and I shared a bond so profound, I knew it would last a lifetime, no matter where I ended up living. He was my home.

Aiden picked me up in his jeep even though we were just going as friends. He looked extra handsome in his gray suit and red bow tie—but I realized, it’s not looks that draws you to someone; it’s their personality and the connection you have with them. Hanging out with Aiden was fun, but it was nothing like the feelings in my chest when I was sitting in Jon’s car.

Soon we were pulling up to Boonville High. Aiden parked the jeep and lifted me out so I wouldn’t have to jump. “Hang on, I gotta get my flask,” he said as I straightened the fabric of my dress.

“Right.” I scanned the parking lot—and was immediately drawn in by chocolate brown eyes.

Jon stood close to the entrance, looking absolutely breathtaking. His dark hair an organized mess, one curl hanging down his forehead... The white bow tie over his black suit matched my dress! He smiled at me, so warm and hopeful that every inch of my skin prickled. He’d come to prom after all.

Next to him, Paul clapped him on the shoulder before turning to Kiki, resplendent in a glittery dark blue dress that highlighted her trim figure. They made such a great couple—both athletes, both absolutely beautiful. Paul took her hand and they headed inside.

Jon was coming my way.

Heat rushed into my cheeks and I turned in pure panic, but Aiden was rummaging through the trunk. I turned around again. Jon was there, smiling a pure, broad smile devoid of pain or fear.

“It’s a perfect dress,” he said. “You’re... perfect.”

A delightful warmth rose to my cheeks. “Thank you, Jon.” I couldn’t help but glance down at the satin and appreciate my curves through the cutout.

“I know I’m not your date for tonight, but I got you something.” He held out a delicate corsage. My hands flew to my mouth when I realized it wasn’t store-bought... No, Jon Henry Denson had bound this spray of daisies himself.

“Yo, man!” Aiden came around the side of the jeep, holding up a flask. “Sorry, it was hidden real good. Want a sip?” he offered me, but I shook my head.

“Hey, man,” Jon said, reaching out to shake his hand. “Thanks for taking Emily to prom.”

I gaped at him, barely able to believe that he wasn’t acting jealous.

“Of course, man.” Aiden clasped his hand like it was no big deal. “You made that for German?” He pointed at the corsage, and Jon nodded. “Great, because I totally forgot.” He laughed.

People were waving at him from afar. He turned to me. “Be back in a sec. You do whatever you need to do.” He ambled off, leaving Jon and me alone again.

“So, um.” Jon glanced at my bare wrist, and I slowly lifted up my arm. It would be a shame if no one wore it. He leaned in and carefully tied the corsage around my wrist—and when our skin connected, a bolt of lightning shot through me.

The corsage fit perfectly. It looked so lovely, I could’ve cried right then and there. I forced back the tears and gave him an appreciative smile. “I love the daisies, they’re beautiful.”

“Not as beautiful as you,” Jon replied, not letting go of my hand.

By the way he looked at me, I could tell he was my Jon again—the reason I grew wings to fly. The reason I knew I could face whatever life was going to throw at me next. I wasn’t a little doll anymore, and that was partly thanks to him.

Still, I pulled my hand out of his. I knew what he was doing. But he had lied to me, and despite Paul urging me to forgive him, I wasn’t sure if I could ever trust him again.

“Have fun tonight,” I said, and made my feet walk past him—but he grabbed my hand again.

“You too.” The look in his eyes was so intense, I felt dizzy.

I swallowed and kept walking, feeling his eyes on my back. I reached Aiden at the entrance, who was chatting with two girls from Strength Training class. He threw an arm around me and they excused themselves, looking disappointed.

“Thanks for saving my ass,” Aiden said in a low voice. “They keep bombarding me with messages. They love my Spanish charm, but I was getting kind of tired of them.”

I rolled my eyes at him; he could be so full of himself. We entered the gym, where prom was unfolding. Everyone embraced their individuality, with an eclectic variety of styles ranging from fairy-tale gowns to short, party-ready dresses with high heels. A judgment-free zone. I reveled in the freedom of self-expression in my freaking faux wedding dress.

We headed to the camera guy in front of a decorated wall. Aiden and I got a first picture, then Paul and Kiki joined, then Danielle and Timo crowded in. Brandon and Hannah photobombed the next few shots with funny faces. Soon, the entire Fam had gathered for group pictures—even Jon, despite hating getting his photo taken. Jamie and her boyfriend J squeezed into the frame until we were all squished together, grinning.

Out of nowhere Aiden scooped me up. “You’re too small, no one’ll see you,” he explained, and then everyone was helping him throw me in the air and catch me again. I was literally flying.

We all headed to the dance floor afterwards, where we showcased increasingly bizarre dance moves. Jon and Timo watched from the sidelines, laughing, apparently getting along even better than on our double date. Danielle and I exchanged a look. She was confused about me and Jon’s current status, and so was I. This felt too... normal. Too easy to be true.

We drank from the punch bowl, only to realize it was spiked with something stronger than sugar. Jon and I shared a glance before bursting into laughter. Tonight was the night we’d all been waiting for. Tonight, I was graduating with the Fam. I was one of them, dancing, laughing and cheering with uninhibited abandon.

The principal’s voice interrupted the festivities, and Jon stepped next to me as we all turned our attention to the front, catching our breath. No matter where I went tonight, he stayed close by.

“It’s time to announce this year’s prom king and queen,” the principal declared. I glanced around and noticed Jamie crossing her fingers. “Our prom king is...” She opened an envelope.

“Paul Shields! Our former football captain who recently returned to the team. Come on up here, Paul!”

I let out a squeal of excitement. Paul looked stunned, even a bit uncomfortable in the spotlight, but he made his way up to the stage, smiling at everyone he passed. He was a natural choice: liked by everyone, with an undeniably warmhearted personality. Jon applauded and whistled next to me, completely at ease with his best friend taking the spotlight. Paul took a seat on a chair that was decked out like a throne, the crown was placed on his head and he awkwardly waved to the crowd.

“And our queen is—” The principal opened another envelope. “Kiki Moore! The best of the class, a member of the cheerleading squad, and future Princeton student! Get up here!”

“What! I’m the best?” Kiki went pale. Danielle and Hannah pushed her forward. She stumbled through the crowd, even Jamie cheering her on, and stepped up onto the stage. The principal grabbed the microphone. “Congratulations, Ms. Moore.”

Kiki cried tears of joy, and Paul hugged her tight. Jon and I exchanged meaningful smiles: our ex-couples had found their happiness.

A slow dance began, and everyone found their partners. Breana and Madison became the unexpected center of attention, eliciting gasps from the crowd as a new couple. Danielle and Timo, enduring high school sweethearts, glided gracefully across the dance floor. Paul and Kiki were lost in each other’s eyes. Hannah and Brandon stood giggling by the punch bowl, not interested in dancing. I searched the crowd for Aiden but he was sitting on the bleachers, two girls wrapped around his arms, fighting for his attention.

Jon smiled at me shyly. “Wanna dance?” he asked, so carefully that my heartbeat wandered up my throat.

“Sure.”

He took my hand and led me to an open spot on the dance floor. Flashing lights played across his face as he put his hands on my waist. He was a good dancer, guiding me with ease around the other couples. I followed effortlessly.

“How come you’re such a great dancer?” I asked, not even afraid to stumble over my own feet.

“I told you, I’m a man of many talents.” He winked and twirled me under his arm before pulling me close to his chest. We stayed on the spot now, shifting from one leg to the other. I couldn’t take my eyes away from him—it was like my brain had stopped working. I was under his spell.

He brushed his thumb over my cheek, tracing the mark I used to hide. “I love your birthmark,” he said. “I love... everything about you.”

Then the song changed: “Fix You” by Coldplay.

I gasped. “Was that—”

“Yep, me.” He smirked, and I let out a shaky breath. We continued dancing, holding each other close. “You know, in a way, you did it. You fixed me, Little German.”

I shook my head. “No, we fixed each other, Jon. I wasn’t this perfect girl when I came here, and you saw that. You helped me. I’m not afraid of going back to Germany anymore.”

“I know we missed a few weeks, but I never broke our rule #3.”

“You wrote it all down?”

“Yeah, every single day... Heck, every hour.”

“I lost my black book!” I blurted out. “I’m so sorry, but I think I forgot it on the bus.”

Jon reached into his jacket. “You mean this one?”

As he pulled it out, I couldn’t believe my eyes. “How did you find it?”

“I didn’t, Bred did.”

“Bred?” I raised my brow, remembering the homeless guy I had shared my jail cell with.

“Yep, he approached me on the street. I almost didn’t recognize him. He wants me to tell you that he’s rooting for us.”

I laughed out loud. “Remind me to buy him a sandwich as a thank you.”

Jon’s eyes flickered with a new fire—a lighter one, nourished, burning strong. He asked, “Do you think you can give me one last chance?”

Maybe Paul was right... Maybe Jon and I were meant to be together. We had been through too much not to get the happy ending we deserved. I was the only one standing between us now.

“Fuck!” I said, making Jon laugh.

“What?”

“It’s weird... It’s like I have this new faith that whatever happens is supposed to happen. I’ve been such a wreck this year, and yet somehow I discover that I can still feel so much happiness. So whatever comes next... I’m ready, Jon. I’m not afraid, I’m brave.”

“You’re the bravest person I know,” he said. “I love you so much.”

I rested my head on his chest and listened to the rhythm of his heart. “I love you too.”

In that moment, surrounded by hundreds of people, it felt like it was only us. Two hearts coming together as one. I wanted him—as much of him as I could get. I lifted my head from his chest and looked up at him. “I’m on birth control now...”

Jon grabbed my hand and pulled me through the crowd toward the exit.

“Where are we going?” I shouted, laughing.

“Don’t know! Somewhere we can be alone.”

“I know where to go!”

Taking the lead, I steered him down the halls to the other side of the building. We ran outside into the crisp early evening air, not stopping until we reached the bleachers at the football field. We ducked underneath and Jon kissed me like there was no tomorrow. We could still hear distant echoes of party music blaring in the gym.

He pulled away for a moment. “Are you sure you want to do it here?” he asked, glancing around the space beneath the bleachers.

I nodded. “No one’s here.”

“You little adrenaline junkie,” Jon teased, taking my wrist.

“Maybe you were right: the idea of being caught does turn me on.”

He didn’t respond, only found my mouth instead.

But what truly turned me on in this moment was that I wasn’t breaking any rules anymore. (Okay, ignoring the fact that it was probably forbidden to do it on school grounds.) More importantly, I was finally allowed to have sex with Jon.

We glided to the ground, tangled in each other’s arms. Just when I was sure this night couldn’t get more perfect, it did, beneath a darkening sky with the love of my life touching me, filling me. I only felt pleasure—no guilt, no fear, no holding back. Our souls connecting, bringing us to the highest peaks of our love.

When we came down from our new favorite drug, aka each other, we strolled over the football field, rosy-cheeked and messy-haired.

“That was incredible,” Jon said, a huge grin on his face.

“It was.” I let him kiss me again. “The best prom I could’ve asked for.”

He smiled and nodded at the horizon. “Seems like we can watch the sunset.” I followed his gaze: the sky was transforming into a breathtaking canvas of deep pinks and reds. The combination of colors suddenly reminded me of the painting in my therapist’s office—pink and red did go together after all. So that was what it reminded me of all this time.

When I looked back at Jon, his smile had vanished and his eyes had welled with tears. “I’m sorry,” he said. “I wish I had given you more nights like these. You deserve it.”

He looked so sad, I shook my head quickly and put my palms on his cheeks. “Don’t cry. Everything is okay. We’re here now; that’s what matters.”

“I know, but—” He swallowed, swiping at his tears. “You made me want to live again, Little German. Before I met you, I doubted I’d ever turn eighteen. I didn’t even want to. But now every day is like a blessing. And then I tried to push you away again, but you were right: that just makes it worse.”

“Jon, it’s okay. We still have time. And we’ll make long distance work.”

He shook his head. “I don’t want to waste any more time. I want you with me. Every minute. Every second. Every breath I have left.”

He reached into his pocket. The football field seemed to fade away as he went down on his knee, a small, elegant box in his hand.

I took a few steps back, glancing around to see if I was dreaming. This couldn’t be real, could it? Wait, why was I walking away? I forced myself to focus on Jon again. My heart was crashing so hard against my ribs, I could barely breathe.

He opened the box.

A dazzling silver ring emerged, catching the light in a cascade of sparkles. I covered my face, feeling the first tears trying to escape my eyes.

His gaze was naked, nervous with hope. “Emily Klein, fuck, I... will you marry me? Please?”

I let the tears spill over. This was the impossible moment I had dreamed of, and there was only one answer swelling within me.

“Y-yes!” I couldn’t help but laugh, the sound bubbling up from deep inside. I nodded fervently. “Yes, yes, yes!”

I dropped to my own knees and literally fell into his arms.

I could go with him to Germany this summer, introduce him to my family, resolve my conflicts with Richard, then move back here. Start a new life close to my friends and my American family—Paul, Gena, Henry, Zack... and the love of my life.

Jon’s grin was stupid with excitement. He crushed me to his chest, and we found ourselves locked in an embrace, sealing the promise of forever. “I can’t believe this,” I managed to say between laughter and tears. My makeup was definitely smudged but my heart was bursting with happiness.

Jon drew me to my feet. Then he carefully slid the ring onto my left ring finger. But I didn’t have eyes for it—only for him.

“This is perfect,” I whispered, my voice filled with awe.

“Dad gave it to me. It was the one he gave Mom. I wanted to buy you one myself, but I’ve been trying to save up money for a plane ticket to Germany, and—”

I cut him off with a kiss. “I don’t want another ring. Heck, you could’ve given me a key chain and I would’ve been happy.”

He laughed. “You mean something like this?” He reached into his pocket again and pulled out a pen on a key chain.

I jumped into his arms again. I got a freaking engagement pen!

But there was more. Jon presented me with his little black book. “There’s something else you deserve to know,” he said with a note of grimness. “I need you to read page 222 and 223.”

Confusion briefly clouded my thoughts. What could it be?

Nothing could change how happy I was right now. Despite my curiosity, the desire to savor this moment overpowered my need to know what was going on. Just like him, I wanted our perfect night to last—tomorrow we could fight again.

“Whatever it is you want to tell me, it can wait,” I said. “Tonight is about us. Let’s enjoy it.”

A genuine smile played on Jon’s lips. “You sure?”

“Yeah. This!” I held up my hand, showing off the ring. “Let’s celebrate!”

Not needing any more encouragement, Jon grabbed my hand and pulled me into another deep, passionate kiss.

Being engaged to Jon wasn’t what I had expected tonight. It was the perfect ending to our story. We kissed until the sunset was replaced by the stars and moon winking down on us.

I forced myself away when my lips were almost numb. “We should go back. They must be waiting for us.”

“I love you.” Jon placed a tender kiss onto my cheek.

We headed back to the party despite my fervent wish for the moment to last forever. As we approached the gym, hand in hand, I saw Paul standing on the lawn surrounded by daisies, seemingly searching for something.

“Hey,” he said. “You wanted me to come outside?” he asked Jon, raising his phone.

Jon furrowed his brow. “Why would you think that?”

“Emily texted me, saying it was important,” Paul said, looking at me with confusion.

“No, I left my phone inside—”

“Is that...” Paul’s gaze fixed on my hand adorned with the ring, then to Jon. “You proposed?”

Jon smiled. “Yeah, I—”

But before he could complete his sentence, the screeching of tires erupted behind me. Paul’s eyes widened and he propelled himself forward, pushing me down. I hit the ground face-first with a thump that was shattered by a sound so piercing, it felt like my eardrums were ripped apart. I squeezed my eyes shut as more sharp cracks echoed through the air.

My body felt heavy.

I forced my eyes open and raised my hand toward the moon, watching a dark liquid drip down my wrist and onto my face.

My hand dropped to the grass.

It was dotted with reddish daisies.

I turned my head and saw his body lying next to me, blood flowing out of his chest—and my heart bled next to his.